Joshua 7: Lessons from Achan on the Consequences of Coveting

Unrepentant coveting any cause negative consequences and pain to many1

Introduction: This chapter tells the story of the Jews’ defeat at the City of Ai after Achan violated God’s command that they not take any of the idols from Jericho. Achan’s sin stemmed from a covetous heart. His love for the pretty idols of the world was greater than his love for God. As a result of his sin, his family died and all of Israel suffered a humiliating defeat. From this chapter, God reveals seven important lessons on the consequences of coveting.

First, God burned with anger at Achan for coveting false idols. Achan’s covetousness stemmed from a sense of entitlement from his privileged background. Through this account, God reveals that His anger may also burn against you when you covet unholy things. Second, from the Jews’ defeat at the battle of Ai, He reveals that coveting can cause an entire community to lose His protection. Third, from Joshua’s grief and torment at the Jews’ defeat, He reveals that your coveting can cause misery for your family and others. Fourth, from Joshua’s fear that the Jews’ defeat would defame God’s holy name, He reveals that your covetousness can defame His holy name. Fifth, through His command for the Jews to consecrate themselves, He reveals that you must cleanse yourself when you become infected with the sin of covetousness. Sixth, through His command for the Jews to conduct a search through all of Israel for the hidden idols, He reveals that He wants you to aggressively search out and remove the hidden sins in your life. Finally, from the stoning of Achan, He reveals that those who covet will be judged. We all deserve the same judgment. Salvation is only possible through faith in Christ.

1. Coveting Can Cause God’s Anger to Burn Against You. Josh. 7:1.

2. Coveting Can Cause an Entire Community to Lose God’s Protection. Josh. 7:2-5.

The Jews’ first victory led to complacency and then spiritual defeat2

3. Coveting Can Inflict Sorrow Upon Others. Josh. 7:6-8.

4. Coveting Can Defame God’s Holy Name. Josh. 7:9.

5. Coveting Must Be Cleansed to Restore God’s Blessings. Josh. 7:10-13.

Rebellion against God can cause Him to remove His hedge of protection4

6. Coveting Must Be Rooted Out Wherever It Hides in Your Life. Josh. 7:14-24.

7. Coveters Who are Not Cleansed By Christ are Barred From Heaven. Josh. 7:25-26.

The judgment of Achan and his family5